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Stewart Island #2
Melting into You
Librarian's note: Alternate cover edition of ISBN13 9780473285937.
Love small-town romance with an unforgettable cast of characters? The Due South series will transport you to an unspoilt, wild island off the coast of New Zealand. Meet Kezia and Ben...
Big, sexy men who don’t relate well to kids need not apply…
Kezia Murphy plays her widow card well. When you don’t trust people not to let you down, it’s easier to not get involved—and getting involved with a man who makes her skin sizzle just by looking at him would be una pazzia—crazy! Four years ago while Kezia’s daughter, Zoe, battled leukaemia, a tragic accident stole her husband’s life. Starting over in the little town of Oban where she’s adopted into the close knit community on Stewart Island, Kezia and her daughter are all the family the other needs. Except Zoe yearns for more.
New Zealand’s worst candidate for instant fatherhood…
Ben doesn’t do gooey emotional stuff. He doesn’t do cosy home and family. And he sure isn’t the big teddy-bear Kezia Murphy, the woman he secretly fantasises about, thinks he is. So when Jade, his surprise eight-year-old daughter arrives on his doorstep, he’s a D-minus student struggling to pass a crash-course in parenting.
They’ll either melt or raze their lives to the ground…
When the sparks of attraction between Kezia and Ben fan into an inferno, Ben doesn’t know how much longer the layers of resistance around his heart can resist melting into the gooey mess he fears. The more he fights it the harder it is to make the choice that will destroy the family he now longs to claim.
Love small-town romance with an unforgettable cast of characters? The Due South series will transport you to an unspoilt, wild island off the coast of New Zealand. Meet Kezia and Ben...
Big, sexy men who don’t relate well to kids need not apply…
Kezia Murphy plays her widow card well. When you don’t trust people not to let you down, it’s easier to not get involved—and getting involved with a man who makes her skin sizzle just by looking at him would be una pazzia—crazy! Four years ago while Kezia’s daughter, Zoe, battled leukaemia, a tragic accident stole her husband’s life. Starting over in the little town of Oban where she’s adopted into the close knit community on Stewart Island, Kezia and her daughter are all the family the other needs. Except Zoe yearns for more.
New Zealand’s worst candidate for instant fatherhood…
Ben doesn’t do gooey emotional stuff. He doesn’t do cosy home and family. And he sure isn’t the big teddy-bear Kezia Murphy, the woman he secretly fantasises about, thinks he is. So when Jade, his surprise eight-year-old daughter arrives on his doorstep, he’s a D-minus student struggling to pass a crash-course in parenting.
They’ll either melt or raze their lives to the ground…
When the sparks of attraction between Kezia and Ben fan into an inferno, Ben doesn’t know how much longer the layers of resistance around his heart can resist melting into the gooey mess he fears. The more he fights it the harder it is to make the choice that will destroy the family he now longs to claim.
ebook
First published June 1, 2014
About the author
Tracey Alvarez
31 books632 followersTracey Alvarez lives in the Coolest Little Capital in the World (a.k.a Wellington, New Zealand) where she’s yet to be buried under her to-be-read book pile by Wellington’s infamous wind—her Kindle’s a lifesaver! Married to a wonderfully supportive IT guy, she has two teens who would love to be surgically linked to their electronic devices.
Fuelled by copious amounts of coffee, she’s the author of contemporary romantic fiction set predominantly in New Zealand. Small-towns, close communities, and families are a big part of the heart-warming stories she writes. Oh, and hot, down-to-earth heroes—Kiwi men, in other words.
When she’s not writing, thinking about writing, or procrastinating about writing, Tracey can be found reading sexy books of all romance genres, nibbling on smuggled chocolate bars, or bribing her kids to take over the housework.
Tracey also writes flirty, dirty stories under the penname Jessie Logan.
Fuelled by copious amounts of coffee, she’s the author of contemporary romantic fiction set predominantly in New Zealand. Small-towns, close communities, and families are a big part of the heart-warming stories she writes. Oh, and hot, down-to-earth heroes—Kiwi men, in other words.
When she’s not writing, thinking about writing, or procrastinating about writing, Tracey can be found reading sexy books of all romance genres, nibbling on smuggled chocolate bars, or bribing her kids to take over the housework.
Tracey also writes flirty, dirty stories under the penname Jessie Logan.
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May 22, 2015
Melting Into You is book two in the Due South series by Tracey Alvarez. I love books that include kids. This book was fantastic. It had every element I look for. Hot chemistry between the main characters, sweet romance, a tough guy that softens to a pussy cat, and two sweet little girls that will just break your heart. Yep, I loved this book.
Kezia Murphy has pretty much been let down by everyone that mattered to her. Her ex-in-laws, her own parents and her deceased husband. She and her eight year old daughter, Zoe, came to Oban on Stewart Island to start fresh. She loves her job as a school teacher and Piper and Shaye Harland, her two best friends, have made her feel like she belongs here. But then there is their brother, Ben. He makes her think and feel all sorts of things, none of them anything to do with being friends. But she will never allow herself to trust or depend on another man again. She can’t let herself. Not with her little girl to take care of.
“Lust and affection faded and grew brittle with time. It wasn’t okay to lean on him. Because leaning on him, depending on him now her heart was involved? Fool-proof recipe for disaster.”
Ben Harland is definitely a tough guy, or at least he thinks he is. He doesn’t do hugs or express any girly emotions. He works on his boat, has poker night with the guys, and other such manly things. Until a brief acquaintance of his from nine years ago, one wild and fun weekend, shows up on his door step with an eight year old little girl, telling him she is his, and that she is leaving her with him. What in the world is he supposed to do with a little girl? Especially one who seems to hate him. So Kezia steps in to help. He doesn’t really mind her help because he has been trying to find excuses to talk to her for awhile now. It’s against his own rule to date anyone on the island but he’s finding it harder and harder to resist her.
“What I need, Kez…” His Adam’s apple bobbed, and his shoulders hunched as if prepared for rejection. “What I seem to need right now…is you.”
This was such a good book. Ben’s transition was miraculous. Ben who doesn’t cook, who would never, ever own a small, yapping mutt of a dog, who would never, ever, bake cupcakes, and who could never see himself as a father or in a committed relationship, gets a crash course in all of the above. Little Jade and Kezia’s daughter, Zoe, become fast best friends and Jade’s transition from a quiet, shy, introverted little girl to a laughing, outgoing little girl was beautiful.
“This is so cool, isn’t it, Jade? It’s like we’re a real family.”
“Yeah,” Jade said quietly.”
As Ben and Kezia slowly give in to the chemistry driving them crazy, will they just be able to get it out of their systems and then move on? Or will one night together never be enough?
“One night no one else could know about-a chance to be a woman first and a mother second. One night to be touched by a man who made her melt from the inside out.”
This really was such a good book. I did a lot of sighing, a lot of smiling, and a lot of worrying that these two wouldn’t find their way. And of course lots of updates with Piper and West from the first book and I got to know Shaye, Piper and Ben’s youngest sister, a little better. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series, Ready to Burn, which is about Shaye and West’s younger estranged brother, Del.
June 18, 2014
4.5 Stars!! Another fun installment in this addictive series!
My dual review with Kathleen posted at Swept Away By Romance
What worked
Kathleen says: I REALLY loved all the characters; they were all done exceeding well, even the dog Sparky gets a 5 star rating.
The location added a lot to the overall story.
This story made me REALLY feel the emotions that took place during the read.
I LOVED that the same characters from book one, In Too Deep, were in this book too.
The way Ben learned with the help of Kezia how to be a father and to always put his daughter Jade's needs before his own.
The chemistry between Ben and Kezia was very believable. I loved how Ben was not going to let Kezia go once he finally figure out how much she meant to him and that he loved her.
Karla says: The whole family and close-knit community feel, and the familiarity that comes with it.
The setting and the language makes this a unique read. Tracey Alvarez is a native New Zealander, so you know you're getting the real deal, she gets the slang right and the lifestyle, because she lives it!
Kezia and Ben are both single parents, something a little different, I liked that.
Getting inside Ben's head was so much fun, he's a real hoot!
What didn't work
Kathleen says: I felt the story ended just a bit abruptly, I’d have liked just a little more added to it. NO EPILOGUE!
Karla says: I thought Jade's acceptance of Ben was too easy. She seemed to settle in with him so quickly and I would have liked to have him work harder for her love and trust, although he was awfully cute at times, did some un-Ben like things to make her feel at ease with him. Plus, he's so easy to love, and he did really put himself out there for her. Okay, I'm contradicting myself here.
I also wanted more of a reaction from Ben's family when they found out about Jade. I loved that they were so accepting, and loving, but I wanted inside their heads. Maybe I just expect too much.
Favorite character
Kathleen says: Ben, he stole my heart, but I have to add Jade, Kezia and Zoe too, I LOVED them all!
Karla says: Ben - Hands down he made this book for me. He was a guy that I wasn't fond of in In Too Deep, but he won me over here! He turned out to be a rather scrumptious pleasant surprise!
Zoe - That girl is a real character...she holds nothing back!
Favorite scene(s)
Kathleen says: I LOVED when Ben entered the Due South’s Manliest Man contest. The scenes where the contest took place had me laughing hard, but the icing on the cake was when Ben heard Jade scream "Go, Dad, go!"
When Ben realized that he really wanted to keep his daughter Jade with him.
The Mother’s Day breakfast in bed scene was WONDERFUL.
When Ben sang Baby Come Back to Kezia in front of everyone in the bar, SO ROMANTIC!
The way Ben finally tells Kezia that he loves her. It was priceless; you will just have to read Melting Into You for yourself to see exactly what I mean.
Karla says: Ben walking Jade to her first day of school. Everyone calling out their well wishes, so sweet, just really brought home that small town/island feel! I also felt like it was a defining moment in their relationship.
The dyslexia discussion. Ben really showed his vulnerable side, a father who would do anything to help his daughter.
The Manliest Man contest! Wish I could have been there and grabbed one of those hotties for myself.
The sexy times between Kezia and Ben...loads of chemistry and Ben is such a giver!! YOWZA!
Overall thoughts
Kathleen says: I give this book a BIG 4.5 Stars!
This was a WONDERFUL romance. It made me happy, sad and mad at times, drawing on all my emotions as I read. The characters were all FANTASTIC and the story line was too. There was a lot of sexual tension and heat that made this book an even better read for me. I have totally enjoyed both of Tracey Alvarez’s books in this series. I would HIGHLY recommend this book/series to ALL my romance reading friends.
Karla says: 4.5 Stars!! Ben MELTED my heart! It's official...I'm hooked on this series!
I want to jump on a plane and fly to this island, because apparently they grow them big and HOT in New Zealand...men that is!!! They also like to roll around in the mud and I want to help hose them off!
I chuckled a lot. Ben was a funny guy. Tracey Alvarez has such a humorous witty side that I enjoy very much. She also didn't flower up Ben's voice, his thoughts were all macho man in real man speak...I liked that, because he is a REAL man. I also love the "man talk" with the guys!
If I had one issue it would be that Kezia needed to loosen up a bit and accept Ben for the charming adorable man he is, he worked so hard to prove himself. She did the "runaway woman" one too many times for my taste, but boy oh boy, did Shaye let her have it...go Shaye!
The story was engaging, funny, heart-warming, sensual, passionate, and brought me back to people and a place I'm growing to love. The ending was sugary sweet, but oh so good!!
Tracey Alvarez has proven herself twice over, she's more than a one-hit wonder!! Her second book had a different plot than In Too Deep, but she has a definite recognizable writing style. She gets the hometown feel down pat, and because she is a native New Zealander, you know that the lingo, traditions and way of life depicted in her books are authentic. I love when a story takes me someplace where I can learn something about the people from a different country and the way they live. She's skilled writer who weaves a captivating amusing tale, with charming relatable characters. Her future is as bright and shiny as the stories she tells!
*A copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
June 17, 2014
Kathleen and Karla's dual review Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
What worked
Kathleen says:I REALLY loved all the characters; they were all done exceeding well, even the dog Sparky gets a 5 star rating.
The location added a lot to the overall story.
This story made me REALLY feel the emotions that took place during the read.
I LOVED that the same characters from book one, In Too Deep, were in this book too.
The way Ben learned with the help of Kezia how to be a father and to always put his daughter Jade's needs before his own.
The chemistry between Ben and Kezia was very believable. I loved how Ben was not going to let Kezia go once he finally figure out how much she meant to him and that he loved her.
Karla says: The whole family and close-knit community feel, and the familiarity that comes with it.
The setting and the language makes this a unique read. Tracey Alvarez is a native New Zealander, so you know you're getting the real deal, she gets the slang right and the lifestyle, because she lives it!
Kezia and Ben are both single parents, something a little different, I liked that.
Getting inside Ben's head was so much fun, he's a real hoot!
What didn't work
Kathleen says: I felt the story ended just a bit abruptly, I’d have liked just a little more added to it. NO EPILOGUE!
Karla says: I thought Jade's acceptance of Ben was too easy. She seemed to settle in with him so quickly and I would have liked to have him work harder for her love and trust, although he was awfully cute at times, did some un-Ben like things to make her feel at ease with him. Plus, he's so easy to love, and he did really put himself out there for her. Okay, I'm contradicting myself here.
I also wanted more of a reaction from Ben's family when they found out about Jade. I loved that they were so accepting, and loving, but I wanted inside their heads. Maybe I just expect too much.
Favorite character
Kathleen says: Ben, he stole my heart, but I have to add Jade, Kezia and Zoe too, I LOVED them all!
Karla says: Ben - Hands down he made this book for me. He was a guy that I wasn't fond of in In Too Deep, but he won me over here! He turned out to be a rather scrumptious pleasant surprise!
Zoe - That girl is a real character...she holds nothing back!
Favorite scene(s)
Kathleen says: I LOVED when Ben entered the Due South’s Manliest Man contest. The scenes where the contest took place had me laughing hard, but the icing on the cake was when Ben heard Jade scream "Go, Dad, go!"
When Ben realized that he really wanted to keep his daughter Jade with him.
The Mother’s Day breakfast in bed scene was WONDERFUL.
When Ben sang Baby Come Back to Kezia in front of everyone in the bar, SO ROMANTIC!
The way Ben finally tells Kezia that he loves her. It was priceless; you will just have to read Melting Into You for yourself to see exactly what I mean.
Karla says: Ben walking Jade to her first day of school. Everyone calling out their well wishes, so sweet, just really brought home that small town/island feel! I also felt like it was a defining moment in their relationship.
The dyslexia discussion. Ben really showed his vulnerable side, a father who would do anything to help his daughter.
The Manliest Man contest! Wish I could have been there and grabbed one of those hotties for myself.
The sexy times between Kezia and Ben...loads of chemistry and Ben is such a giver!! YOWZA!
Overall thoughts
Kathleen says: I give this book a BIG 4.5 Stars!
This was a WONDERFUL romance. It made me happy, sad and mad at times, drawing on all my emotions as I read. The characters were all FANTASTIC and the story line was too. There was a lot of sexual tension and heat that made this book an even better read for me. I have totally enjoyed both of Tracey Alvarez’s books in this series. I would HIGHLY recommend this book/series to ALL my romance reading friends.
Karla says: 4.5 Stars!! Ben MELTED my heart! It's official...I'm hooked on this series!
I want to jump on a plane and fly to this island, because apparently they grow them big and HOT in New Zealand...men that is!!! They also like to roll around in the mud and I want to help hose them off!
I chuckled a lot. Ben was a funny guy. Tracey Alvarez has such a humorous witty side that I enjoy very much. She also didn't flower up Ben's voice, his thoughts were all macho man in real man speak...I liked that, because he is a REAL man. I also love the "man talk" with the guys!
If I had one issue it would be that Kezia needed to loosen up a bit and accept Ben for the charming adorable man he is, he worked so hard to prove himself. She did the "runaway woman" one too many times for my taste, but boy oh boy, did Shaye let her have it...go Shaye!
The story was engaging, funny, heart-warming, sensual, passionate, and brought me back to people and a place I'm growing to love. The ending was sugary sweet, but oh so good!!
Tracey Alvarez has proven herself twice over, she's more than a one-hit wonder!! Her second book had a different plot than In Too Deep, but she has a definite recognizable writing style. She gets the hometown feel down pat, and because she is a native New Zealander, you know that the lingo, traditions and way of life depicted in her books are authentic. I love when a story takes me someplace where I can learn something about the people from a different country and the way they live. She's skilled writer who weaves a captivating amusing tale, with charming relatable characters. Her future is as bright and shiny as the stories she tells!
*A copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
What worked
Kathleen says:I REALLY loved all the characters; they were all done exceeding well, even the dog Sparky gets a 5 star rating.
The location added a lot to the overall story.
This story made me REALLY feel the emotions that took place during the read.
I LOVED that the same characters from book one, In Too Deep, were in this book too.
The way Ben learned with the help of Kezia how to be a father and to always put his daughter Jade's needs before his own.
The chemistry between Ben and Kezia was very believable. I loved how Ben was not going to let Kezia go once he finally figure out how much she meant to him and that he loved her.
Karla says: The whole family and close-knit community feel, and the familiarity that comes with it.
The setting and the language makes this a unique read. Tracey Alvarez is a native New Zealander, so you know you're getting the real deal, she gets the slang right and the lifestyle, because she lives it!
Kezia and Ben are both single parents, something a little different, I liked that.
Getting inside Ben's head was so much fun, he's a real hoot!
What didn't work
Kathleen says: I felt the story ended just a bit abruptly, I’d have liked just a little more added to it. NO EPILOGUE!
Karla says: I thought Jade's acceptance of Ben was too easy. She seemed to settle in with him so quickly and I would have liked to have him work harder for her love and trust, although he was awfully cute at times, did some un-Ben like things to make her feel at ease with him. Plus, he's so easy to love, and he did really put himself out there for her. Okay, I'm contradicting myself here.
I also wanted more of a reaction from Ben's family when they found out about Jade. I loved that they were so accepting, and loving, but I wanted inside their heads. Maybe I just expect too much.
Favorite character
Kathleen says: Ben, he stole my heart, but I have to add Jade, Kezia and Zoe too, I LOVED them all!
Karla says: Ben - Hands down he made this book for me. He was a guy that I wasn't fond of in In Too Deep, but he won me over here! He turned out to be a rather scrumptious pleasant surprise!
Zoe - That girl is a real character...she holds nothing back!
Favorite scene(s)
Kathleen says: I LOVED when Ben entered the Due South’s Manliest Man contest. The scenes where the contest took place had me laughing hard, but the icing on the cake was when Ben heard Jade scream "Go, Dad, go!"
When Ben realized that he really wanted to keep his daughter Jade with him.
The Mother’s Day breakfast in bed scene was WONDERFUL.
When Ben sang Baby Come Back to Kezia in front of everyone in the bar, SO ROMANTIC!
The way Ben finally tells Kezia that he loves her. It was priceless; you will just have to read Melting Into You for yourself to see exactly what I mean.
Karla says: Ben walking Jade to her first day of school. Everyone calling out their well wishes, so sweet, just really brought home that small town/island feel! I also felt like it was a defining moment in their relationship.
The dyslexia discussion. Ben really showed his vulnerable side, a father who would do anything to help his daughter.
The Manliest Man contest! Wish I could have been there and grabbed one of those hotties for myself.
The sexy times between Kezia and Ben...loads of chemistry and Ben is such a giver!! YOWZA!
Overall thoughts
Kathleen says: I give this book a BIG 4.5 Stars!
This was a WONDERFUL romance. It made me happy, sad and mad at times, drawing on all my emotions as I read. The characters were all FANTASTIC and the story line was too. There was a lot of sexual tension and heat that made this book an even better read for me. I have totally enjoyed both of Tracey Alvarez’s books in this series. I would HIGHLY recommend this book/series to ALL my romance reading friends.
Karla says: 4.5 Stars!! Ben MELTED my heart! It's official...I'm hooked on this series!
I want to jump on a plane and fly to this island, because apparently they grow them big and HOT in New Zealand...men that is!!! They also like to roll around in the mud and I want to help hose them off!
I chuckled a lot. Ben was a funny guy. Tracey Alvarez has such a humorous witty side that I enjoy very much. She also didn't flower up Ben's voice, his thoughts were all macho man in real man speak...I liked that, because he is a REAL man. I also love the "man talk" with the guys!
If I had one issue it would be that Kezia needed to loosen up a bit and accept Ben for the charming adorable man he is, he worked so hard to prove himself. She did the "runaway woman" one too many times for my taste, but boy oh boy, did Shaye let her have it...go Shaye!
The story was engaging, funny, heart-warming, sensual, passionate, and brought me back to people and a place I'm growing to love. The ending was sugary sweet, but oh so good!!
Tracey Alvarez has proven herself twice over, she's more than a one-hit wonder!! Her second book had a different plot than In Too Deep, but she has a definite recognizable writing style. She gets the hometown feel down pat, and because she is a native New Zealander, you know that the lingo, traditions and way of life depicted in her books are authentic. I love when a story takes me someplace where I can learn something about the people from a different country and the way they live. She's skilled writer who weaves a captivating amusing tale, with charming relatable characters. Her future is as bright and shiny as the stories she tells!
*A copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Want to read
March 4, 2019🎁 FREE on iBooks today (3/4/2019)! 🎁
December 25, 2020
Talk about an amazing array of characters and a different take on a usually mundane storyline. WOW! Ms Alvarez has written a thoroughly enjoyable book.
Kezia Murphy moved to Stewart Island to start fresh and new after her daughter, Zoe beat cancer, her husband died and her parents and his let her down. Now she has caved a niche of friends and made a home for them. She is content with it being only her and Zoe. No matter the attraction to her friend's brother.
Ben Harland doesn't do attachments and living on Stewart Island affords him with plenty of bedmates, no matter how drawn to her sisters' friend Kezia he is. When a surprise knocks on his door crashes his well-structured life it will push him and Kezia together with his daughter, Jade, who is eight, and he never knew about but is being left to take care of.
As the two adult and the two kids spend time together, he sees maybe his life wasn't as happy as he thought, and now he will have to fight for what he never knew he wanted.
Great characters, loved the story.
Kezia Murphy moved to Stewart Island to start fresh and new after her daughter, Zoe beat cancer, her husband died and her parents and his let her down. Now she has caved a niche of friends and made a home for them. She is content with it being only her and Zoe. No matter the attraction to her friend's brother.
Ben Harland doesn't do attachments and living on Stewart Island affords him with plenty of bedmates, no matter how drawn to her sisters' friend Kezia he is. When a surprise knocks on his door crashes his well-structured life it will push him and Kezia together with his daughter, Jade, who is eight, and he never knew about but is being left to take care of.
As the two adult and the two kids spend time together, he sees maybe his life wasn't as happy as he thought, and now he will have to fight for what he never knew he wanted.
Great characters, loved the story.
June 11, 2014
Another awesome story by Tracey Alvarez! Book one was fantastic, with just the right mix of romance, fun, angst and steam to ensure a great reading experience and book hangover afterwards. I wasn’t sure what to expect next, because when you end up loving the first book by a new author, you also end up having high expectations for the next one. I’m happy to say Tracey didn’t disappoint me. Ben and Kezia’s story is just as great as West and Piper’s was (In Too Deep). At first I have to admit I was caught off guard when the bomb was dropped on Ben in the very first chapter – how could he, a grumpy and a little selfish womanizer, take care of an eight-year-old? Well, this turns out to be the source for the funniest moments in the book and it completely changed the opinion of Ben I had from the first book. Daddy Ben is hilarious. I laughed out loud during most of the interactions between him and his daughter, and when a puppy enters the scene, things got even funnier.
I loved the chemistry between Kezia and Ben, and how becoming a dad so suddenly changed Ben’s life for the better, making him realize the important things, especially as far as relationships are concerned.
Kezia is a fantastic heroine. She’s strong, caring and selfless, always putting her daughter’s happiness and well-being first even if this means getting over her attraction for Ben.
The two little girls are amazing. I loved Zoe in the first book, and I got even fonder of her in this one; Jade, Ben’s daughter, is super cute and I loved how she turned from a shy and scared little thing into a happy, carefree girl.
I was happy Piper and West were still part of the story, and I liked Shaye’s parts too (Ben’s sister).
I’m looking forward to reading more about these great characters and I hope there’ll be many more books in the Due South series, because I don’t think I’ll ever be ready to let go of my favourite kiwi boyfriends!
***I was gifted a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review***
I loved the chemistry between Kezia and Ben, and how becoming a dad so suddenly changed Ben’s life for the better, making him realize the important things, especially as far as relationships are concerned.
Kezia is a fantastic heroine. She’s strong, caring and selfless, always putting her daughter’s happiness and well-being first even if this means getting over her attraction for Ben.
The two little girls are amazing. I loved Zoe in the first book, and I got even fonder of her in this one; Jade, Ben’s daughter, is super cute and I loved how she turned from a shy and scared little thing into a happy, carefree girl.
I was happy Piper and West were still part of the story, and I liked Shaye’s parts too (Ben’s sister).
I’m looking forward to reading more about these great characters and I hope there’ll be many more books in the Due South series, because I don’t think I’ll ever be ready to let go of my favourite kiwi boyfriends!
***I was gifted a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review***
July 23, 2014
In Too Deep is the first in the Due South Series, and I devoured it. Needless to say I was hanging out for Ben and Kezia's story. I was not disappointed. Ben is big and alpha, and at times struggles to put into words what he's thinking, and as much as he tries to deny it, a bit of a teddy bear *shhhhhh*. Kezia's been through some seriously hard times, but has found a new life for herself on beautiful Stewart Island with her daughter. Both characters were well developed and you can't help but fall in loved with them (And of course Ben is super hot :P) I really enjoyed the way Ben and Kezia's relationship unfolded.
Tracey Alvarez successfully pulled me into the hearts and minds of her characters and weaved an emotionally charged story, that was super hot, sweet and at times heart wrenching.
I loved it and can't wait for book 3!
Tracey Alvarez successfully pulled me into the hearts and minds of her characters and weaved an emotionally charged story, that was super hot, sweet and at times heart wrenching.
I loved it and can't wait for book 3!
September 25, 2014
Darn you, Tracey Alvarez! I should have known better than to start reading Due South #2 after I could barely put down Due South #1. But I did. I started it. Even though I had tons of other things I should get done first. And they are still undone. Because I couldn't put your flipping book down again until I'd finished it. Well played, or I guess I should say, well written, Ms. Alvarez, well written.
I must admit, at first I found Ben (the hero)a huge stronzo. He's not the kind of hero to fall instantly in love with. In fact, I was almost a third of the way through the book before I could even think this couple had a hope of making it. But the more I read, the more emotionally invested I became and the more I was rooting for them to have their HEA. And just when I thought the story was going in one direction (not the boy band, btw) the author took an entirely different route.
Another great story. I can't wait for Due South #3 to hit my Kindle. I've already preordered it.
I must admit, at first I found Ben (the hero)a huge stronzo. He's not the kind of hero to fall instantly in love with. In fact, I was almost a third of the way through the book before I could even think this couple had a hope of making it. But the more I read, the more emotionally invested I became and the more I was rooting for them to have their HEA. And just when I thought the story was going in one direction (not the boy band, btw) the author took an entirely different route.
Another great story. I can't wait for Due South #3 to hit my Kindle. I've already preordered it.
May 20, 2015
Thanks to the author for a free book to read and review. I have to say this book was extremely well written as the first in the series. This is the second book in this series and can be read alone. There was a good attraction between the characters but I didn't like Ben as much as Ryan. The story premise was great, and the book stayed well within its genre. The synopsis of this book pulled me in, although the authors style of writing made me want the second book. No cliffhangers, and other than the book battling dead beat parents, the book ended nice and sweet. I hope the author continues this series, and we see more from this couple in future books. Overall entertainment was five stars. Thanks so much for a copy of your book! Loved it.
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
June 18, 2014
Kezia had everything in her life a job that she like a daugther she worship but there was something missing, something to put spice in it and that something in reality is someone.
Ben who was living a simple life until his life took an unexpected turn and be more vivid with emotions that he wanted to deny and have nothing to do with them.
Two completelly opposite people with opposite futur purposes whose life took the best turn ever.
Ben who was living a simple life until his life took an unexpected turn and be more vivid with emotions that he wanted to deny and have nothing to do with them.
Two completelly opposite people with opposite futur purposes whose life took the best turn ever.
March 29, 2018
Okay book, just not my cup of tea. Got 25% through and then realized that I was forcing myself to read it. Life is too short to read books that you don't enjoy.
May 31, 2022
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, written primarily third person, from Ben’s perspective. Kezia is a widow, her daughter Zoe, was battling leukemia, the night her husband Callum announced he was moving out, it was also the night he lost his life.
Ben is a confirmed bachelor without any emotional entanglements. He’s not interested in a committed relationship and values his freedom. Until the day one of his ex-flings comes knocking and announces that he has a daughter….and she’s leaving her with him for the school holiday (two weeks).
Marcie his ex fling drops Jade to stay with a father she’s never met; thoughtlessly, uttering hurtful remarks causing Jade to shy away, feeling unwanted. ‘Tripping over tiny boots left on his floor sucked. Having to know Jade’s location every moment of every day sucked. Juggling his schedule and grovelling for babysitters sucked even more. Ten days, ten nights. They couldn’t go fast enough’.
Ben’s instant fatherhood status, should have been a lesson in promiscuity; thinking this isn’t life-altering, he believes his life will resume to normal after her departure. Abandoned by a mother that needs ‘me time’ and sent to stay with an unwilling father as he gets a well-deserved dose of ‘daddyhood.’
Marcie and Ben hooked up nine years ago when she was on holiday. He used protection, but as a hormonal twenty-year-old, it wasn’t idiot-proof. She left the island after that weekend and he never heard from her again, until today.
She was engaged at the time—not that he knew that.
Happy with her future, she told her fiancé that he was the father. As Jade began outgrowing her baby features, he became suspicious enough to have a DNA test. He took their then four-year-old son Blake, and walked out, the same day he got the DNA results. Her ex-husband was awarded full custody.
Marcie deserves a ‘Mother of the Year’ award (insert sarcasm).
She then changes her mind and decides Jade is better off remaining permanently with Ben. ‘Full-time father. Twenty-four-seven for the next decade—he’d be a year off forty before he was free again. No more poker nights until two in the morning. No more booty calls—as West put it—whenever a pretty tourist caught his eye. No more easy sex’.
Jade and Zoe play matchmakers to their parents. They have them featured in a Disney movie where the widowed mum and solo dad gets married and live happily ever after.
Kezia met Callum as a sheltered twenty-one-year old, he asked for her opinion on a scarf for his mother’s birthday, in a department store. Her parents were overprotective and her four brothers saw it as their duty to cover any of their blind spots. An unplanned pregnancy later, she never considered whether she wanted to marry Callum—or just as importantly, whether he wanted to marry her.
Her brothers plotted his demise and her parents were inconsolable. She expected their fury after becoming pregnant outside of marriage. She mistakenly believed that once they got married their feelings would subside. Neither set of parents did. It wasn’t long before she realised that she would never belong in his world.
Ben grew up quickly, setting aside his dreams when his father, Michael Harland died. A secret alcoholic fifteen years sober, drowned because he acted on a dumb idea after a fight with Ben’s mother, Glenna. Michael consoled himself with his old pal Jack Daniels, and the next morning chose to free-dive with then eighteen-year-old Piper as a safety diver. And where had Ben been, while his father was dying in the cold waters of Paterson Inlet? Sleeping off a night of hard drinking with his mates. Nice, huh?
“What did you want to be when you grew up?”
“A cop—like my dad. But after he died, Piper left to live with our aunt in Wellington and applied to the police college there.”
“You didn’t apply too?”
“Someone needed to run Dad’s dive business.”
Ben took over the dive business, trying to support his remaining family, despite contributing financially, he just didn’t know how to support them emotionally, he took care of his mum and sister the best he could.
“Mamma? My dad’s been dead a long time, hasn’t he? I don’t remember him very well.” She was merely four, when he died in the car accident, his work had become an oasis and a convenient excuse to hide from his sick pre-schooler and exhausted wife.
“Step away from the boobs, Benny-boy.”
He never lost control with women, but being male, he suffered from foot-in-mouth disease on a regular basis.
“…and if there are, ah, complications later…I’ll take care of it.”
“Complications? You mean, as an example, our weekend fling resulting in me falling pregnant.?”
Kezia is reluctant to become involved with another man because about every man in her life has disappointed her. As she's finally ready to succumb, Marcie makes a reappearance and presents an ultimatum, threatening to withhold access to Jade unless he moves with her and marries her.
Entertaining the idea of marrying Marcie as a desperate move to have access to Jade....is beyond convoluted.
Whiplash - temporary - permanent - wants him to marry her, did I forget anything?
Finally she decides her children are disposable and she’s no longer interested in the role of full-time parent, agreeing to grant him full custody.
“Do you think we can just go back to the way we were before?”
“Well, not exactly like before…”
“You consider marrying another woman, and after she lets you off the hook, you think we’ll pick up where we left off?”
“You were being responsible, I get it. Just like when you were twenty and you were responsible by taking care of your father’s dive business and your family. You provided for their practical needs, but were you ever there, truly there, when they needed more than your breadwinning capabilities or strength?”
“This has nothing to do with us.”
“It has everything to do with us! You almost did the same thing last weekend by half convincing yourself marrying Marci would be the practical and responsible thing to do to secure Jade’s future.”
“I made the only decision I thought I could make.”
“Yes. You made the decision. You said you would take care of this. There was no us while you thought about marrying that woman. There was no us after you turned down my offer of financial help without discussion. If it were only sex between us, I’d understand. But you told me it was more than just sex, Ben. You made me believe it was more. But then it came down to the hard stuff and you didn’t want to dirty your hands with messy emotions. You just up and walked away.”
“I didn’t walk away from you.”
“In every way that matters to me, you did.”
There's humour, heartbreak, misunderstandings and passion. He epically redeems himself.
Minor spelling inconsistencies ‘mom rather than mum’
neighboring versus neighbouring
euthanized vs euthanised
Ben is a confirmed bachelor without any emotional entanglements. He’s not interested in a committed relationship and values his freedom. Until the day one of his ex-flings comes knocking and announces that he has a daughter….and she’s leaving her with him for the school holiday (two weeks).
Marcie his ex fling drops Jade to stay with a father she’s never met; thoughtlessly, uttering hurtful remarks causing Jade to shy away, feeling unwanted. ‘Tripping over tiny boots left on his floor sucked. Having to know Jade’s location every moment of every day sucked. Juggling his schedule and grovelling for babysitters sucked even more. Ten days, ten nights. They couldn’t go fast enough’.
Ben’s instant fatherhood status, should have been a lesson in promiscuity; thinking this isn’t life-altering, he believes his life will resume to normal after her departure. Abandoned by a mother that needs ‘me time’ and sent to stay with an unwilling father as he gets a well-deserved dose of ‘daddyhood.’
Marcie and Ben hooked up nine years ago when she was on holiday. He used protection, but as a hormonal twenty-year-old, it wasn’t idiot-proof. She left the island after that weekend and he never heard from her again, until today.
She was engaged at the time—not that he knew that.
Happy with her future, she told her fiancé that he was the father. As Jade began outgrowing her baby features, he became suspicious enough to have a DNA test. He took their then four-year-old son Blake, and walked out, the same day he got the DNA results. Her ex-husband was awarded full custody.
Marcie deserves a ‘Mother of the Year’ award (insert sarcasm).
She then changes her mind and decides Jade is better off remaining permanently with Ben. ‘Full-time father. Twenty-four-seven for the next decade—he’d be a year off forty before he was free again. No more poker nights until two in the morning. No more booty calls—as West put it—whenever a pretty tourist caught his eye. No more easy sex’.
Jade and Zoe play matchmakers to their parents. They have them featured in a Disney movie where the widowed mum and solo dad gets married and live happily ever after.
Kezia met Callum as a sheltered twenty-one-year old, he asked for her opinion on a scarf for his mother’s birthday, in a department store. Her parents were overprotective and her four brothers saw it as their duty to cover any of their blind spots. An unplanned pregnancy later, she never considered whether she wanted to marry Callum—or just as importantly, whether he wanted to marry her.
Her brothers plotted his demise and her parents were inconsolable. She expected their fury after becoming pregnant outside of marriage. She mistakenly believed that once they got married their feelings would subside. Neither set of parents did. It wasn’t long before she realised that she would never belong in his world.
Ben grew up quickly, setting aside his dreams when his father, Michael Harland died. A secret alcoholic fifteen years sober, drowned because he acted on a dumb idea after a fight with Ben’s mother, Glenna. Michael consoled himself with his old pal Jack Daniels, and the next morning chose to free-dive with then eighteen-year-old Piper as a safety diver. And where had Ben been, while his father was dying in the cold waters of Paterson Inlet? Sleeping off a night of hard drinking with his mates. Nice, huh?
“What did you want to be when you grew up?”
“A cop—like my dad. But after he died, Piper left to live with our aunt in Wellington and applied to the police college there.”
“You didn’t apply too?”
“Someone needed to run Dad’s dive business.”
Ben took over the dive business, trying to support his remaining family, despite contributing financially, he just didn’t know how to support them emotionally, he took care of his mum and sister the best he could.
“Mamma? My dad’s been dead a long time, hasn’t he? I don’t remember him very well.” She was merely four, when he died in the car accident, his work had become an oasis and a convenient excuse to hide from his sick pre-schooler and exhausted wife.
“Step away from the boobs, Benny-boy.”
He never lost control with women, but being male, he suffered from foot-in-mouth disease on a regular basis.
“…and if there are, ah, complications later…I’ll take care of it.”
“Complications? You mean, as an example, our weekend fling resulting in me falling pregnant.?”
Kezia is reluctant to become involved with another man because about every man in her life has disappointed her. As she's finally ready to succumb, Marcie makes a reappearance and presents an ultimatum, threatening to withhold access to Jade unless he moves with her and marries her.
Entertaining the idea of marrying Marcie as a desperate move to have access to Jade....is beyond convoluted.
Whiplash - temporary - permanent - wants him to marry her, did I forget anything?
Finally she decides her children are disposable and she’s no longer interested in the role of full-time parent, agreeing to grant him full custody.
“Do you think we can just go back to the way we were before?”
“Well, not exactly like before…”
“You consider marrying another woman, and after she lets you off the hook, you think we’ll pick up where we left off?”
“You were being responsible, I get it. Just like when you were twenty and you were responsible by taking care of your father’s dive business and your family. You provided for their practical needs, but were you ever there, truly there, when they needed more than your breadwinning capabilities or strength?”
“This has nothing to do with us.”
“It has everything to do with us! You almost did the same thing last weekend by half convincing yourself marrying Marci would be the practical and responsible thing to do to secure Jade’s future.”
“I made the only decision I thought I could make.”
“Yes. You made the decision. You said you would take care of this. There was no us while you thought about marrying that woman. There was no us after you turned down my offer of financial help without discussion. If it were only sex between us, I’d understand. But you told me it was more than just sex, Ben. You made me believe it was more. But then it came down to the hard stuff and you didn’t want to dirty your hands with messy emotions. You just up and walked away.”
“I didn’t walk away from you.”
“In every way that matters to me, you did.”
There's humour, heartbreak, misunderstandings and passion. He epically redeems himself.
Minor spelling inconsistencies ‘mom rather than mum’
neighboring versus neighbouring
euthanized vs euthanised
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2016
Also reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books.
When I finished In Too Deep, book one of Tracey Alvarez's Due South series last winter, I knew I was going to be one of the first in line for book two, Ben and Kezia's story. Then I found out it wasn't coming out until June. Let me tell you, in the depths of the winter we just had, I didn't think June was ever going to get here. It did, of course, and I'm happy to report that Melting Into You was soooo worth the wait!
Life hasn't been easy for Kezia Murphy. Four years ago, her precocious daughter Zoe fought and won an epic battle with leukemia. In the midst of that struggle, Zoe's dad was lost to them forever in a senseless accident. Once Zoe recovered, Kezia packed up their belongings for a fresh start on Stewart Island, determined to never again depend on people who would ultimately let her down. Ever since, it's been her and Zoe--with a tiny bit of help from a small group of select friends, Piper and Shaye Harland among them--against the world.
Enter Ben Harland. He's the oldest of the Harland siblings, and he is so absolutely out of the question as far as Kezia's concerned. Sure, he's hot. But can you say commitment phobe? Ben's got two rules: one, never mess around with local women; two, ditto friends of his sisters. Kezia's a check mark in both columns, thankyouverymuch. Soooo not going to happen.
Except they have a crazy attraction going on...which they maybe could have kept on ignoring. Until a major surprise shows up on Ben's doorstep one Saturday morning...
His eight-year-old daughter Jade. Whose existence Ben knew nothing about until that very moment--and suddenly, he's got a pint-sized house guest for two weeks. And not a clue what to do with her.
But, hey--Kezia teaches eight-year-olds. Heck, she has an eight-year-old--and Zoe's already decided that Jade's going to be her new BFF.
So, no problem. Ben can get a little help from Kezia for the next two weeks, squeeze in a one-night-only fling with her somewhere far away from prying Oban eyes, and send his daughter back to her mother at the end of the holiday, none the worse for wear. And then he'll have his life back, no sweat.
Riiiight. You know how well that's going to work out, don't you? Yeah, so did Ben--but he went there anyway:
Uh huh. Sure, Ben.
Melting Into You has it all, from touching family drama to off-the-charts sexual chemistry. Watching Ben get closer to his daughter and becoming a real parent, is wonderful; not to mention laugh-out-loud at times. (Having him enter the Due South's Manliest Man contest was genius--trust me, you'll love that part! So much fun to read.) Witnessing him and Kezia finally give in to their attraction is worth every cold-shower-inducing moment that comes before for the two of them. Learning new substitutions for swear words ("fucoid" is definitely one I'll be using next month on our Ocean City vacay) and some actual Italian curses give the reading experience a little extra something--not that it needed anything more.
And then there's this gem from poor, in-over-his-head and now-completely-surrounded by-women Ben:
Ah, if only they all learned that lesson so quickly and well. ;)
Melting Into You, though it is the second in the series, can be read as a stand-alone. Piper and West, the hero and heroine of In Too Deep, make just enough of an appearance to whet your appetite for their story, though--don't say I didn't warn you.
All in all, this book was a great kick-off to my summer reading. Whether you're on the beach or as far from the shore as you can get, Ben and Kezia's story will start your summer holidays off right.
(Well, unless you're in the southern hemisphere like the story's characters, who are going into winter. But hey, you all just had your summer, so I'm not going to feel too sorry for you. Especially if you already live on an island ;) )
And finally, words of wisdom from the youngest Harland sibling, Shaye:
Oh, yeah. She is so gonna get hers when book three, Ready to Burn comes out! Can't (though I know I have to, darn it) wait! :)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
When I finished In Too Deep, book one of Tracey Alvarez's Due South series last winter, I knew I was going to be one of the first in line for book two, Ben and Kezia's story. Then I found out it wasn't coming out until June. Let me tell you, in the depths of the winter we just had, I didn't think June was ever going to get here. It did, of course, and I'm happy to report that Melting Into You was soooo worth the wait!
Life hasn't been easy for Kezia Murphy. Four years ago, her precocious daughter Zoe fought and won an epic battle with leukemia. In the midst of that struggle, Zoe's dad was lost to them forever in a senseless accident. Once Zoe recovered, Kezia packed up their belongings for a fresh start on Stewart Island, determined to never again depend on people who would ultimately let her down. Ever since, it's been her and Zoe--with a tiny bit of help from a small group of select friends, Piper and Shaye Harland among them--against the world.
Enter Ben Harland. He's the oldest of the Harland siblings, and he is so absolutely out of the question as far as Kezia's concerned. Sure, he's hot. But can you say commitment phobe? Ben's got two rules: one, never mess around with local women; two, ditto friends of his sisters. Kezia's a check mark in both columns, thankyouverymuch. Soooo not going to happen.
Except they have a crazy attraction going on...which they maybe could have kept on ignoring. Until a major surprise shows up on Ben's doorstep one Saturday morning...
His eight-year-old daughter Jade. Whose existence Ben knew nothing about until that very moment--and suddenly, he's got a pint-sized house guest for two weeks. And not a clue what to do with her.
But, hey--Kezia teaches eight-year-olds. Heck, she has an eight-year-old--and Zoe's already decided that Jade's going to be her new BFF.
So, no problem. Ben can get a little help from Kezia for the next two weeks, squeeze in a one-night-only fling with her somewhere far away from prying Oban eyes, and send his daughter back to her mother at the end of the holiday, none the worse for wear. And then he'll have his life back, no sweat.
Riiiight. You know how well that's going to work out, don't you? Yeah, so did Ben--but he went there anyway:
“One time, and no one—especially our girls—will get hurt.”
The door hissed shut after her, leaving him staring at the scarred wood. Kezia was right. Nobody needed to know a fundamental Ben rule was to be broken. Limiting it to a one-time thing meant no entanglements or emotional demands afterwards.
So, why did it piss him off a little that she suggested it?
Because he was a moron. A moron who agreed to a single hook up, when his heart told him in no uncertain terms once wouldn’t be enough.
Delusional, lust-hangover-talk. His heart didn’t know what the hell it was talking about.
Uh huh. Sure, Ben.
Melting Into You has it all, from touching family drama to off-the-charts sexual chemistry. Watching Ben get closer to his daughter and becoming a real parent, is wonderful; not to mention laugh-out-loud at times. (Having him enter the Due South's Manliest Man contest was genius--trust me, you'll love that part! So much fun to read.) Witnessing him and Kezia finally give in to their attraction is worth every cold-shower-inducing moment that comes before for the two of them. Learning new substitutions for swear words ("fucoid" is definitely one I'll be using next month on our Ocean City vacay) and some actual Italian curses give the reading experience a little extra something--not that it needed anything more.
And then there's this gem from poor, in-over-his-head and now-completely-surrounded by-women Ben:
Female-taming techniques 101—rack brains for what they might mean, then agree using carefully rephrased words.
Ah, if only they all learned that lesson so quickly and well. ;)
Melting Into You, though it is the second in the series, can be read as a stand-alone. Piper and West, the hero and heroine of In Too Deep, make just enough of an appearance to whet your appetite for their story, though--don't say I didn't warn you.
All in all, this book was a great kick-off to my summer reading. Whether you're on the beach or as far from the shore as you can get, Ben and Kezia's story will start your summer holidays off right.
(Well, unless you're in the southern hemisphere like the story's characters, who are going into winter. But hey, you all just had your summer, so I'm not going to feel too sorry for you. Especially if you already live on an island ;) )
And finally, words of wisdom from the youngest Harland sibling, Shaye:
“Falling in love shouldn’t be stressful.” Shaye picked up her flatware with a small frown.
Piper snorted, coughed, and thumped her breastbone with a fist. “On what world other than a Disney-animated one is that statement true? Puh-lease.”
“Well, when I fall in love with the perfect guy, there won’t be any stress.” Shaye scooped up a forkful of rocket and beetroot salad and stuffed it defiantly into her mouth.
Oh, yeah. She is so gonna get hers when book three, Ready to Burn comes out! Can't (though I know I have to, darn it) wait! :)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2019
Another wonderful
Story in the series. This time Ben is front and center, he finds out he has 8 year old daughter from a weekend hook up that left the island, but he might have actually found love. Kezie moved to the island with her daughter, she is a teacher & a widow, but relationships haven't been her strong suit. Can they work.
Story in the series. This time Ben is front and center, he finds out he has 8 year old daughter from a weekend hook up that left the island, but he might have actually found love. Kezie moved to the island with her daughter, she is a teacher & a widow, but relationships haven't been her strong suit. Can they work.
May 31, 2020
Overall I liked this book. Ben is living the single life when all of sudden he finds out that he has an 8 year old daughter. Needless to say, we learn quickly that Ben is a terrible dad. However, with the help of Kezia he learns quickly. Thankfully by the end Ben and Kezia are together because they sure did play around a lot with their feelings.
Want to read
March 8, 2019Free on amazon 8th March 2019
June 16, 2014
MELTING INTO YOU is the second book in TRACEY ALVAREZ’ Due South series, set on the beautiful little island Stewart Island off of New Zealand. While I really enjoyed reading about Piper’s and West’s story in INTO THE DEEP, a book with just the right amount of suspense, drama and passion – I literally devoured this one! I mean, I almost expected this, as I had a crush on Ben, Piper’s grumpy and close-mouthed brother, from the beginning of the series and I also adored Kezia and her smart and statistics loving little daughter Zoe. So for me their story ended much too soon.
Ben Harland owns a dive business together with his sister Piper and now, after finally having repaid all debts he is living a pretty much carefree life. That changes rapidly when a fling from about nine years ago appears on the island and drops an eight year-old girl onto his doorstep, claiming she is his daughter who needs to get to know her real father. Completely caught off guard and absolutely baffled and overstrained Ben turns to his neighbor Kezia, a young widowed schoolteacher with a daughter almost the same age, for help to cope with a frightened abandoned little girl who has no idea why her mother left her with a daunting stranger.
Kezia brings along her lively daughter Zoe, who of course is more than excited to have another girl her age to play with. Soon the little girl, Jade, warms up to her new surroundings and Ben starts to take her into his heart.
But his heart wants even more: He always has been attracted to Kezia, but as he does not do relationships she always has been off limits for him. Kezia, on the other hand, always puts her daughter at first, she cannot allow herself a fling with a man who might be seen as a new daddy by her little daughter too soon and who would be left heartbroken if this daddy left again.
Only with their two girls spending more and more time together they are forced to see each other more often as well…
Ben being a responsible and caring daddy? Huh – who would have thought? Me definitely not and was more than surprised to see this womanizer being forced to take care of his eight year-old child. How will he cope with that?
But after overcoming some teething troubles and with a lot help of Kezia, he manages to learn how to be the best possible dad to a little girl he only just met and who thinks that nobody wants her. The Ben – Jade interactions are some of the funniest and adorable moments in this story as Ben realizes he does not want to lose his kid ever again.
Kezia is a strong, selfless and independent woman – and she would like to keep it that way. Having suffered some bitter curveballs already in her life, she does not want to rely on another person ever again. Therefore she tries to avoid Ben as hard as she can, even if her hearts tells her otherwise, but he is a risk she cannot take – even if it is only for Zoe’s sake. Still, she cannot walk out on Ben, leaving him to deal with his new daddyhood all alone.
The chemistry between Kezia and Ben is incredible. As long as they both try to fight it, it is always lurking below, waiting for its chance to get out. Becoming a dad definitely changed Ben’s life for the better, not only because he opens up some more but also because otherwise he and Kezia would never have happened otherwise.
The two little girls are also adorable! I loved Zoe ever since! Being so young, having just learned how to read and still she already is interested in statistics, no matter how harsh a topic might be. She is so happy and carefree, always speaking her mind – the complete opposite to what Jade is like when she meets her. Jade is scared and shy with little self-esteem thanks to her mother and it is just lovely how she turns into this carefree girl in the end.
I love Tracey’s witty writing style. It is beautiful and captivating, bringing a smirk on my face all along. Add the stunning location that is Stewart Island – or New Zealand altogether for that matter – to the mix and you have a story that keeps you enthralled all along the way!
Piper’s and Ben’s little sister, Shaye, will get her book next – and I cannot wait to return to that paradise in Oban, Stewart Island!
Ben Harland owns a dive business together with his sister Piper and now, after finally having repaid all debts he is living a pretty much carefree life. That changes rapidly when a fling from about nine years ago appears on the island and drops an eight year-old girl onto his doorstep, claiming she is his daughter who needs to get to know her real father. Completely caught off guard and absolutely baffled and overstrained Ben turns to his neighbor Kezia, a young widowed schoolteacher with a daughter almost the same age, for help to cope with a frightened abandoned little girl who has no idea why her mother left her with a daunting stranger.
Kezia brings along her lively daughter Zoe, who of course is more than excited to have another girl her age to play with. Soon the little girl, Jade, warms up to her new surroundings and Ben starts to take her into his heart.
But his heart wants even more: He always has been attracted to Kezia, but as he does not do relationships she always has been off limits for him. Kezia, on the other hand, always puts her daughter at first, she cannot allow herself a fling with a man who might be seen as a new daddy by her little daughter too soon and who would be left heartbroken if this daddy left again.
Only with their two girls spending more and more time together they are forced to see each other more often as well…
Ben being a responsible and caring daddy? Huh – who would have thought? Me definitely not and was more than surprised to see this womanizer being forced to take care of his eight year-old child. How will he cope with that?
But after overcoming some teething troubles and with a lot help of Kezia, he manages to learn how to be the best possible dad to a little girl he only just met and who thinks that nobody wants her. The Ben – Jade interactions are some of the funniest and adorable moments in this story as Ben realizes he does not want to lose his kid ever again.
Kezia is a strong, selfless and independent woman – and she would like to keep it that way. Having suffered some bitter curveballs already in her life, she does not want to rely on another person ever again. Therefore she tries to avoid Ben as hard as she can, even if her hearts tells her otherwise, but he is a risk she cannot take – even if it is only for Zoe’s sake. Still, she cannot walk out on Ben, leaving him to deal with his new daddyhood all alone.
The chemistry between Kezia and Ben is incredible. As long as they both try to fight it, it is always lurking below, waiting for its chance to get out. Becoming a dad definitely changed Ben’s life for the better, not only because he opens up some more but also because otherwise he and Kezia would never have happened otherwise.
The two little girls are also adorable! I loved Zoe ever since! Being so young, having just learned how to read and still she already is interested in statistics, no matter how harsh a topic might be. She is so happy and carefree, always speaking her mind – the complete opposite to what Jade is like when she meets her. Jade is scared and shy with little self-esteem thanks to her mother and it is just lovely how she turns into this carefree girl in the end.
I love Tracey’s witty writing style. It is beautiful and captivating, bringing a smirk on my face all along. Add the stunning location that is Stewart Island – or New Zealand altogether for that matter – to the mix and you have a story that keeps you enthralled all along the way!
Piper’s and Ben’s little sister, Shaye, will get her book next – and I cannot wait to return to that paradise in Oban, Stewart Island!
August 13, 2014
Tracey Alvarez's Melting Into You is a gripping and moving romance
How delightful to travel back (virtually) to New Zealand’s Stewart Island via Tracey Alvarez’s new entry in her Due South series, Melting Into You. I found the description of this wild island's winter most refreshing as I swelter here in 90+F degree days. Once again, Alvarez has written about real-to-life characters who are facing major issues in their lives.
Ben, the swinging bachelor whose longest commitment was measured in just a few months (and that to guarantee an assistant for his tourist shark dives), is faced with the result of a long ago one night fling. A nine-year-old daughter he never knew existed till she was literally dropped on his doorstep by her self-involved mum. As someone who took on the mantle of family protector and provider when his father died, Ben has never wanted to be responsible for anyone else again. But he can’t dodge paternity forever.
Contrast him with his sister’s best friend and roommate, Kezia, who’s a widowed mum of a precocious daughter whose leukemia (now in remission) was almost fatal. She’s the new island school teacher and although there’s a very mutual attraction at work between the two of them it remains unacknowledged as their lives are just too different. Add Jade (Ben’s daughter) and Zoe (Kezia’s) desire for a family to the mix and Ben and Kezia may need to reassess their lives and give that attraction a whirl.
In Alvarez’s first Due South book, In Too Deep, I had enjoyed the character of Ben, even though he seemed like consummate player who had a proverbial unending buffet of tourist lovelies to choose from. But there was something truly solid about this bad boy and when he rescued Kezie from a very uncomfortable situation, I could seem him as a white knight (perhaps with slightly tarnished armor). However, faced with his daughter it seems that any gentleness has been lost and he only becomes human again when his hormones are activated by Kezia. With Jade staying with him for two weeks, he (with Kezia’s guidance) finds a way to connect with this child that seemingly no one wants.
Along the way there’s quite a bit of almost consummations between Ben and Kezia, but if she’s looking for a real relationship is he capable of offering one. The dynamics change once again, when the absent mum calls on the day she’s scheduled to arrive to say she’s decided Ben should keep Jade - permanently - as she’s off to be married to a banker who doesn’t want encumbrances.
Thus Jade and Ben and Zoe and Kezie little by little become a family. Shared meals, excursions (the Manliest Man contest is a must-read in and of itself), playdates, and celebrations all coalesce into the sense of a possible idealic, picture perfect family. But as this is Tracey Alvarez, fairy tale endings are not the name of the game. She makes the Ben and Kezie (and the reader) work for a happily-ever-after and throws in plenty of plot twists and turns along the way.
If you’re looking for a romance that has a bite of reality, Alvarez is the author for you. I have to admit to wanting to shake both Kezie and Ben many times in the story, but that just goes to show how involved I was while reading Melting Into You.
Once again, I highly recommend that you travel with Tracey Alvarez Due South to Stewart Island and Melting Into You.
Four and a half stars
(I received an eARC from the author for use in this review.)
How delightful to travel back (virtually) to New Zealand’s Stewart Island via Tracey Alvarez’s new entry in her Due South series, Melting Into You. I found the description of this wild island's winter most refreshing as I swelter here in 90+F degree days. Once again, Alvarez has written about real-to-life characters who are facing major issues in their lives.
Ben, the swinging bachelor whose longest commitment was measured in just a few months (and that to guarantee an assistant for his tourist shark dives), is faced with the result of a long ago one night fling. A nine-year-old daughter he never knew existed till she was literally dropped on his doorstep by her self-involved mum. As someone who took on the mantle of family protector and provider when his father died, Ben has never wanted to be responsible for anyone else again. But he can’t dodge paternity forever.
Contrast him with his sister’s best friend and roommate, Kezia, who’s a widowed mum of a precocious daughter whose leukemia (now in remission) was almost fatal. She’s the new island school teacher and although there’s a very mutual attraction at work between the two of them it remains unacknowledged as their lives are just too different. Add Jade (Ben’s daughter) and Zoe (Kezia’s) desire for a family to the mix and Ben and Kezia may need to reassess their lives and give that attraction a whirl.
In Alvarez’s first Due South book, In Too Deep, I had enjoyed the character of Ben, even though he seemed like consummate player who had a proverbial unending buffet of tourist lovelies to choose from. But there was something truly solid about this bad boy and when he rescued Kezie from a very uncomfortable situation, I could seem him as a white knight (perhaps with slightly tarnished armor). However, faced with his daughter it seems that any gentleness has been lost and he only becomes human again when his hormones are activated by Kezia. With Jade staying with him for two weeks, he (with Kezia’s guidance) finds a way to connect with this child that seemingly no one wants.
Along the way there’s quite a bit of almost consummations between Ben and Kezia, but if she’s looking for a real relationship is he capable of offering one. The dynamics change once again, when the absent mum calls on the day she’s scheduled to arrive to say she’s decided Ben should keep Jade - permanently - as she’s off to be married to a banker who doesn’t want encumbrances.
Thus Jade and Ben and Zoe and Kezie little by little become a family. Shared meals, excursions (the Manliest Man contest is a must-read in and of itself), playdates, and celebrations all coalesce into the sense of a possible idealic, picture perfect family. But as this is Tracey Alvarez, fairy tale endings are not the name of the game. She makes the Ben and Kezie (and the reader) work for a happily-ever-after and throws in plenty of plot twists and turns along the way.
If you’re looking for a romance that has a bite of reality, Alvarez is the author for you. I have to admit to wanting to shake both Kezie and Ben many times in the story, but that just goes to show how involved I was while reading Melting Into You.
Once again, I highly recommend that you travel with Tracey Alvarez Due South to Stewart Island and Melting Into You.
Four and a half stars
(I received an eARC from the author for use in this review.)
November 22, 2015
Beide Hauptcharaktere kennt man bereits aus „In Too Deep“. Pipers Bruder, der schweigsame, raue Ben und die junge Mutter Kezia, die sich mit ihrer freundlichen und offenen Art sofort mit Piper und deren Schwester Shaye angefreundet hat. Vor vier Jahren war ihre nun achtjährige Tochter Zoe an Leukämie erkrankt und wäh-rend die Kleine um ihr Leben kämpfte, starb ihr Mann bei einem Autounfall. Jetzt ist sie nach Oban gekommen, um damit die beiden neu anfangen können. Ben ist das komplette Gegenteil, der Womanizer und begehrte Junggeselle, kann mit Kin-dern nichts anfangen und auch alles Emotionale ist im ein Rätsel. Da steht plötzlich einer seiner One Night Stands vor der Tür, im Schlepptau seine achtjährige Tochter Jade, von deren Existenz er bisher nichts wusste. Jetzt soll er Verantwortung über-nehmen und als er mit dem schüchternen, scheuen Mädchen allein zurückbleibt, wendet er sich an die einzige Person, die im in den Sinn kommt: Kezia. Sie unter-stützt ihn und Zoe freundet sich mit Jade an. Je mehr Zeit die beiden kleinen Fami-lien miteinander verbringen, desto weniger können Ben und Jade die Anziehung abstreiten, die zwischen ihnen herrscht.
Wie „In Too Deep“ hat mich auch „Melting into you“ sofort überzeugt. Ich mochte Kezia, die dank ihrer italienischen Abstammung, nie um ein Wort verlegen ist und obwohl sie bereits so viel durchgemacht hat, ihre Lebensfreude und Hoffnung nie aufgegeben hat. Ben lernte ich im ersten Teil als einen eigensinnigen, brummigen Mann kennen, der seiner Schwester die Schuld am Tod des Vaters und seiner Ent-scheidung daraufhin das Familienbusiness übernehmen zu müssen, gab. Auch stand er anfangs zwischen West und Piper. Nicht die geeigneten Voraussetzungen also, um viele Pluspunkte zu sammeln, doch in „Melting into you“ lernt man seine andere, weichere Seite kennen. Obwohl er stets behauptet kein „Teddybär“-Typ zu sein, ist er genau das. Er nimmt sich seines Kindes an, obwohl es ihm Angst macht und er keinerlei Erfahrungen mit Kindern hat. Er liebt Jane, der er jeden Wunsch erfüllt. Er liebt Kezia und Zoe, obwohl er das anfangs nie zu gegeben hätte – aber hey, er backt ihr Cupcakes und steht Zoe bei. Er lernt ein Vater zu sein, was nicht immer einfach ist und auch seine Beziehung zu Kezia wandelt sich. Kezia sträubt sich anfangs gegen die Anziehung, die Ben ausleben will. Doch es ist schwer ihm zu widerstehen und so gestattet sie ihnen, ein Wochenende abseits der Insel. Natür-lich bleibt es nicht dabei, doch Missverständnisse und Angst legen ihnen Steine in den Weg und Ben wächst über sich hinaus, um Kezia von seiner Liebe zu überzeu-gen.
Zoe und Jade sind einfach wunderbar. Die beiden Mädchen spielen eine sehr wich-tige Rolle in der ganzen Geschichte und vor allem Zoe, die schon so viel in ihrem jungen Leben ertragen musste, ist witzig und taff. Ganz anders als Jade, die einge-schüchtert zu Ben kommt, jedoch aufblüht und am Ende ein unbeschwertes, kleines Mädchen ist.
Natürlich treffen wir auch wieder auf West, Piper, Shaye und die anderen, was mich sehr gefreut hat.
„Melting into you“ ist eine schöne, realitätsnahe Romanze, die ebenso wie Teil 1 mit einem wunderbaren Pärchen und einer emotionsgeladenen, süßen, sexy und teil-weise herzzerreißenden Geschichte aufwarten kann.
Wie „In Too Deep“ hat mich auch „Melting into you“ sofort überzeugt. Ich mochte Kezia, die dank ihrer italienischen Abstammung, nie um ein Wort verlegen ist und obwohl sie bereits so viel durchgemacht hat, ihre Lebensfreude und Hoffnung nie aufgegeben hat. Ben lernte ich im ersten Teil als einen eigensinnigen, brummigen Mann kennen, der seiner Schwester die Schuld am Tod des Vaters und seiner Ent-scheidung daraufhin das Familienbusiness übernehmen zu müssen, gab. Auch stand er anfangs zwischen West und Piper. Nicht die geeigneten Voraussetzungen also, um viele Pluspunkte zu sammeln, doch in „Melting into you“ lernt man seine andere, weichere Seite kennen. Obwohl er stets behauptet kein „Teddybär“-Typ zu sein, ist er genau das. Er nimmt sich seines Kindes an, obwohl es ihm Angst macht und er keinerlei Erfahrungen mit Kindern hat. Er liebt Jane, der er jeden Wunsch erfüllt. Er liebt Kezia und Zoe, obwohl er das anfangs nie zu gegeben hätte – aber hey, er backt ihr Cupcakes und steht Zoe bei. Er lernt ein Vater zu sein, was nicht immer einfach ist und auch seine Beziehung zu Kezia wandelt sich. Kezia sträubt sich anfangs gegen die Anziehung, die Ben ausleben will. Doch es ist schwer ihm zu widerstehen und so gestattet sie ihnen, ein Wochenende abseits der Insel. Natür-lich bleibt es nicht dabei, doch Missverständnisse und Angst legen ihnen Steine in den Weg und Ben wächst über sich hinaus, um Kezia von seiner Liebe zu überzeu-gen.
Zoe und Jade sind einfach wunderbar. Die beiden Mädchen spielen eine sehr wich-tige Rolle in der ganzen Geschichte und vor allem Zoe, die schon so viel in ihrem jungen Leben ertragen musste, ist witzig und taff. Ganz anders als Jade, die einge-schüchtert zu Ben kommt, jedoch aufblüht und am Ende ein unbeschwertes, kleines Mädchen ist.
Natürlich treffen wir auch wieder auf West, Piper, Shaye und die anderen, was mich sehr gefreut hat.
„Melting into you“ ist eine schöne, realitätsnahe Romanze, die ebenso wie Teil 1 mit einem wunderbaren Pärchen und einer emotionsgeladenen, süßen, sexy und teil-weise herzzerreißenden Geschichte aufwarten kann.
October 20, 2014
Melting Into You was a super fun follow up to In Too Deep. So far the Due South Series has pleased my happy read-omitor! We were introduced to Ben and Kez in the first book of the series. Kez is a widow who resides in town and is a school teacher. Ben is the super sexy often reckless brother that piper helped save from financial ruin. Piper has moved back home and is partnering with Ben in their fathers business. We had just enough drama with a dab of flare.
M-istakes, from the past have come to haunt Ben he is stuck.
E-scape, the life he once lead will never be the same Ben is shackled with a responsibility he never saw coming.
L-onging, Ben has always had one rule never be involved with a local woman.
T-rust, Kez knows being a parent is a lot of pressure she will do what it takes to help Ben.
I-gniting, there is definite chemistry between Kez and Ben everyone can see and feel the tension in the air.
N-eighbors, Ben’s daughter is scared and feels unloved thanks to the friendship she has formed with Kez's daughter things are getting easier for her.
G-rowing, Ben knew this would turn out to be much longer than a vacation sort of thing but having this little person under his care has melted his heart.
I-nevitable, the type of emotion Kez and Ben share has come to a boiling point no longer able to deny their feelings they give in.
N-urture, Kez is so happy for the type of man Ben has become but she knows how fickle thing may be.
T-ruth, being a widow is only part of Kez’s story the pain of her losses go much deeper than that.
O-bstacle, coming back out of nowhere Ben’s past resurfaces but he has no choice he will do what it takes to have his heart near.
Yearning, Kez needs to get away from the pain but in doing so he was unable to be there for her daughter and that breaks her more than any man ever could.
Only, returning to find the truth Ben must prove to Kez that he would do anything to make her happy he is tired of pretending he doesn't love her.
Unannounced, the girls think of a way to get Kez and Ben together once they accomplish their mission everyone senses the shift in the air.
Like I mentioned earlier this was a great read. Both Ben and Kez had some major walls built up but it was nice to see them come down. Through out the book they fought their attraction but everyone knew their connection was real. One of my favorite part was the girls. When Ben's daughter came to stay with him it took Kez's daughter to pull her out of her shell. Ben has a loving family who was extremely supportive and loving towards his daughter. My heart broke for him when I thought she was going to be taken away. I was glad to see that her selfish mother finally did the right thing. Even though Kez was heartbroken it was nice to see her still being supportive towards Ben's daughter. The HEA suited these two perfectly and I'm glad they were able to find their way towards happiness.
My Rating
4.0 Work, Neighbor, Teacher, Pig Tails, Bushes, Purple, Cupcakes, Sleepover, Hotel room, Brothers, Illness, Song, Special day, Accepting Love filled stars!
M-istakes, from the past have come to haunt Ben he is stuck.
E-scape, the life he once lead will never be the same Ben is shackled with a responsibility he never saw coming.
L-onging, Ben has always had one rule never be involved with a local woman.
T-rust, Kez knows being a parent is a lot of pressure she will do what it takes to help Ben.
I-gniting, there is definite chemistry between Kez and Ben everyone can see and feel the tension in the air.
N-eighbors, Ben’s daughter is scared and feels unloved thanks to the friendship she has formed with Kez's daughter things are getting easier for her.
G-rowing, Ben knew this would turn out to be much longer than a vacation sort of thing but having this little person under his care has melted his heart.
I-nevitable, the type of emotion Kez and Ben share has come to a boiling point no longer able to deny their feelings they give in.
N-urture, Kez is so happy for the type of man Ben has become but she knows how fickle thing may be.
T-ruth, being a widow is only part of Kez’s story the pain of her losses go much deeper than that.
O-bstacle, coming back out of nowhere Ben’s past resurfaces but he has no choice he will do what it takes to have his heart near.
Yearning, Kez needs to get away from the pain but in doing so he was unable to be there for her daughter and that breaks her more than any man ever could.
Only, returning to find the truth Ben must prove to Kez that he would do anything to make her happy he is tired of pretending he doesn't love her.
Unannounced, the girls think of a way to get Kez and Ben together once they accomplish their mission everyone senses the shift in the air.
Like I mentioned earlier this was a great read. Both Ben and Kez had some major walls built up but it was nice to see them come down. Through out the book they fought their attraction but everyone knew their connection was real. One of my favorite part was the girls. When Ben's daughter came to stay with him it took Kez's daughter to pull her out of her shell. Ben has a loving family who was extremely supportive and loving towards his daughter. My heart broke for him when I thought she was going to be taken away. I was glad to see that her selfish mother finally did the right thing. Even though Kez was heartbroken it was nice to see her still being supportive towards Ben's daughter. The HEA suited these two perfectly and I'm glad they were able to find their way towards happiness.
My Rating
4.0 Work, Neighbor, Teacher, Pig Tails, Bushes, Purple, Cupcakes, Sleepover, Hotel room, Brothers, Illness, Song, Special day, Accepting Love filled stars!
June 25, 2014
This novel is great as a stand alone story line but is even better if you have read book one in this series—In Too Deep—because having read the first book gives you the background knowledge which helps you understand the characters early on. But even if you have never seen book one, you will enjoy this book.
It is a love story, and who doesn’t love to read love stories. The two main characters are Kezia, a widow with a young daughter who also happens to be a leukemia survivor, so our leading lady has seen a lot of trouble and sorrow in her young life. Her marriage was not exactly a happy one and we learn the details as the story evolves. She has moved from the capitol city of New Zealand to our tiny island to make a fresh start for her and her daughter. She is the island’s school teacher and shares a home with Shaye, the chef at the local pub and the sister of our leading male character, Ben Harland.
Ben’s life has not been easy either. When he was 20 and a party guy, he had been out all night drinking with his mates and was sleeping it off the next morning when his dad wanted to go diving without a tank to practice for the annual contest. Since Ben was absent, his dad took his 18 year old sister, Piper, to be his safety back-up diver in case something went wrong. Something did go wrong and the dad died and his body was lost—either to sharks or the ocean, they never knew which. His sister was so distraught she left the island the day after their dad’s memorial service to try to lose her pain and guilt by becoming a police officer in the city. She almost totally stopped contact with her family. His mother was a total emotional wreck and his youngest sister, only 16 at the time, was also a mess. Someone had to try to keep the family together and support them financially, so Ben stepped up and took over his father’s whale watching tour boat business to provide the financial support, but no one gave them the emotional support they all needed and each dealt with it in their own way. Ben’s way was to drown himself in work, booze and one-night stands with tourists. He had decided never to date an island women because they would always be around and probably expect a long term relationship, for which he was not emotionally ready to commit.
Please visit www.renesgetaway.blogspot.com to view the full review and other great reviews!
It is a love story, and who doesn’t love to read love stories. The two main characters are Kezia, a widow with a young daughter who also happens to be a leukemia survivor, so our leading lady has seen a lot of trouble and sorrow in her young life. Her marriage was not exactly a happy one and we learn the details as the story evolves. She has moved from the capitol city of New Zealand to our tiny island to make a fresh start for her and her daughter. She is the island’s school teacher and shares a home with Shaye, the chef at the local pub and the sister of our leading male character, Ben Harland.
Ben’s life has not been easy either. When he was 20 and a party guy, he had been out all night drinking with his mates and was sleeping it off the next morning when his dad wanted to go diving without a tank to practice for the annual contest. Since Ben was absent, his dad took his 18 year old sister, Piper, to be his safety back-up diver in case something went wrong. Something did go wrong and the dad died and his body was lost—either to sharks or the ocean, they never knew which. His sister was so distraught she left the island the day after their dad’s memorial service to try to lose her pain and guilt by becoming a police officer in the city. She almost totally stopped contact with her family. His mother was a total emotional wreck and his youngest sister, only 16 at the time, was also a mess. Someone had to try to keep the family together and support them financially, so Ben stepped up and took over his father’s whale watching tour boat business to provide the financial support, but no one gave them the emotional support they all needed and each dealt with it in their own way. Ben’s way was to drown himself in work, booze and one-night stands with tourists. He had decided never to date an island women because they would always be around and probably expect a long term relationship, for which he was not emotionally ready to commit.
Please visit www.renesgetaway.blogspot.com to view the full review and other great reviews!
December 17, 2014
5 Stars
Fear is something we have all come upon in our lives. Whether the fear be of the unknown or the anticipation of what will happen we have all come upon it. At times our breathing speeds up, we begin to sweat and our hearts begin to flutter but what we make of it becomes part of our existence. To experience it is to live.
This is the second book in the Due South Series the first is In Too Deep
Ben-rugged, hunky
Kezia-pretty, smart and a mom
Piper & West-from In Too Deep
Ben is a man that can have any woman he wants but as a knock on his door comes. A reality has also come with it. Ben is floored with the knowingness that he has a daughter. Being scared and feeling totally elated in not knowing what to do he does what any man does he gets scared and runs to the one person that he knows can help. That one person happens to be the one person that has stolen his heart but has yet to admit such.
Kezia is a mom, a teacher and has a heart of gold. She holds her heart close and tries not to falter when it seems to know what is best but sometimes the heart can stray you in the wrong direction when it meets up with your mind but at the same time when one over takes the other the only thing that you can do is to follow your heart and make the mind follow. Plus, having a smart daughter that knows your heart better than you know it helps along the way.
Ben and Kezia’s journey is a long time coming in more ways than one. With obstacles in the way will they falter together or bring the closeness that they so richly deserve to become one? Ben’s daughter Jade is so special to each of them as Kezia’s daughter Zoe is. It seems like the children know more than the parents but as that holds to be true will these two parents be able to make along lasting commitment to become one family or will they stay separate and keep on the path of separateness? Did I mention that they sex between this couple is like hot coals in a barbeque on a hot summers day?
Piper and West have come to make a major appearance in this amazing read find out what is going on with them while you fall in love with Ben and Kezia.
To the author: Amazing obstacles and one amazing read for all.
To the readers: This journey between the two will pull at your heartstrings and you will have a wonderful exciting time with them.
Happy Reading
Fear is something we have all come upon in our lives. Whether the fear be of the unknown or the anticipation of what will happen we have all come upon it. At times our breathing speeds up, we begin to sweat and our hearts begin to flutter but what we make of it becomes part of our existence. To experience it is to live.
This is the second book in the Due South Series the first is In Too Deep
Ben-rugged, hunky
Kezia-pretty, smart and a mom
Piper & West-from In Too Deep
Ben is a man that can have any woman he wants but as a knock on his door comes. A reality has also come with it. Ben is floored with the knowingness that he has a daughter. Being scared and feeling totally elated in not knowing what to do he does what any man does he gets scared and runs to the one person that he knows can help. That one person happens to be the one person that has stolen his heart but has yet to admit such.
Kezia is a mom, a teacher and has a heart of gold. She holds her heart close and tries not to falter when it seems to know what is best but sometimes the heart can stray you in the wrong direction when it meets up with your mind but at the same time when one over takes the other the only thing that you can do is to follow your heart and make the mind follow. Plus, having a smart daughter that knows your heart better than you know it helps along the way.
Ben and Kezia’s journey is a long time coming in more ways than one. With obstacles in the way will they falter together or bring the closeness that they so richly deserve to become one? Ben’s daughter Jade is so special to each of them as Kezia’s daughter Zoe is. It seems like the children know more than the parents but as that holds to be true will these two parents be able to make along lasting commitment to become one family or will they stay separate and keep on the path of separateness? Did I mention that they sex between this couple is like hot coals in a barbeque on a hot summers day?
Piper and West have come to make a major appearance in this amazing read find out what is going on with them while you fall in love with Ben and Kezia.
To the author: Amazing obstacles and one amazing read for all.
To the readers: This journey between the two will pull at your heartstrings and you will have a wonderful exciting time with them.
Happy Reading
August 16, 2014
I have to admit that I picked this book up expecting to get a light romance that was a good read - a three star book, maybe four. So you can probably imagine my surprise when I didn't enjoy the book ... I loved it! Ms. Alvarez has created a cast of characters that are so real and fun to read about that I couldn't not connect with them.
Ben is the sexy alpha playboy who's hot for teacher but hasn't done anything about it as his personal rules dictate that he not "date" a local as the island is so small they'd always be running into one another, which could become quite awkward. Unfortunately for him, his history of hooking up with the tourists comes back to haunt him nine years later when he becomes an insta-dad. Kezia is the widowed single mother who gets Ben's blood boiling and makes him reconsider his personal dating rules. As they spend more time around one another when their daughters become friends, he realizes the attraction is not one-sided and begins his pursuit. As she had been disappointed and crushed by those she's loved in the past, Kezia refuses to open herself up to a man again. But these two have a chemistry so intense it can't be denied and it makes for some oh-so-fun-to-read sex scenes and laugh-out-loud moments.
Although Melting in to You is the second book in the Due South series, it can be read as a stand-alone without any confusion. That said, I plan to read In Too Deep as soon as I can work it into my reading schedule as I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Alvarez’s writing style and the characters she creates. If you’re looking for a laugh out loud romance with a bit of heat, grab Melting in to You and prepare to immerse yourself in the tiny Stewart Island community.
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
Ben is the sexy alpha playboy who's hot for teacher but hasn't done anything about it as his personal rules dictate that he not "date" a local as the island is so small they'd always be running into one another, which could become quite awkward. Unfortunately for him, his history of hooking up with the tourists comes back to haunt him nine years later when he becomes an insta-dad. Kezia is the widowed single mother who gets Ben's blood boiling and makes him reconsider his personal dating rules. As they spend more time around one another when their daughters become friends, he realizes the attraction is not one-sided and begins his pursuit. As she had been disappointed and crushed by those she's loved in the past, Kezia refuses to open herself up to a man again. But these two have a chemistry so intense it can't be denied and it makes for some oh-so-fun-to-read sex scenes and laugh-out-loud moments.
Although Melting in to You is the second book in the Due South series, it can be read as a stand-alone without any confusion. That said, I plan to read In Too Deep as soon as I can work it into my reading schedule as I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Alvarez’s writing style and the characters she creates. If you’re looking for a laugh out loud romance with a bit of heat, grab Melting in to You and prepare to immerse yourself in the tiny Stewart Island community.
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
July 10, 2014
Due South Book 2, Melting Into You, is Ben and Kezia Muphy's story. This story begins with Ben dreaming of Kezia. Now Ben, one of the island's most eligible bachelors, and one that insists bachelorhood is going to be his permanent status, gets his world rocked by three women; his daughter, oh, surprise, surprise, Jade; Kezia, the sexy Italian schoolteacher that helps him with his new status as a father; and Zoe, Kezia's outspoken, headstrong, loving daughter.
My first reaction to the plot of Ben's one night stand showing up on his doorstep with a girl that is unmistakably his daughter, was come on! I like my romances a certain way, but once I got over my initial reaction, I can honestly say, it was wrong.
We met Kezia, as well as Ford and Kip in Due South book 1. And Kezia's fiesty, yet protective attitude of her daughter, Zoe wouldn't have allowed her and Ben to get together any other way.
Kezia is a widow with an 8 year old daughter who's fought and won the battle of Leukemia, so far. And when Jade's mother dumps her on Ben, what ensues is a heartwarming tug of war with Kezia doing everything in her power to get Ben to loosen up his grumpy, one-way attitude.
Ben goes through epic failure and triumph at becoming a single father, all with Kezia, Jade, and Zoe's help. Jade finds a place where she's wanted and Zoe gets a sister long before Ben and Kezia make it official.
So you're thinking there's no romance in this story. But its woven within the strands of Ben becoming a father, and Kezia helping him. The off the charts attraction is there even as we see Ben placing flour covered hands on Kezia's face from the cupcakes he's made. That's after burning two prior batches.
See my goodreads blog for the entire review on this book and book 1 in the series.
My first reaction to the plot of Ben's one night stand showing up on his doorstep with a girl that is unmistakably his daughter, was come on! I like my romances a certain way, but once I got over my initial reaction, I can honestly say, it was wrong.
We met Kezia, as well as Ford and Kip in Due South book 1. And Kezia's fiesty, yet protective attitude of her daughter, Zoe wouldn't have allowed her and Ben to get together any other way.
Kezia is a widow with an 8 year old daughter who's fought and won the battle of Leukemia, so far. And when Jade's mother dumps her on Ben, what ensues is a heartwarming tug of war with Kezia doing everything in her power to get Ben to loosen up his grumpy, one-way attitude.
Ben goes through epic failure and triumph at becoming a single father, all with Kezia, Jade, and Zoe's help. Jade finds a place where she's wanted and Zoe gets a sister long before Ben and Kezia make it official.
So you're thinking there's no romance in this story. But its woven within the strands of Ben becoming a father, and Kezia helping him. The off the charts attraction is there even as we see Ben placing flour covered hands on Kezia's face from the cupcakes he's made. That's after burning two prior batches.
See my goodreads blog for the entire review on this book and book 1 in the series.
September 29, 2014
‘Melting into You’ continues the Due South series, this time focusing on Kezia and Ben. Ben has never wanted a long-term relationship. Kezia, a widowed school teacher with a young daughter, is not looking for any kind of relationship. But the fates (and the author) had other ideas.
When loud banging on the door rouses Ben from some seriously steamy dreams about the school teacher he finds a woman from his past with a young girl in tow. Apparently, he has a daughter. Surprise!! Being a Dad was never on Ben’s top 100 list of things to do. Ben is clueless when it comes to children. Thankfully Kezia is a typical Italian Mom, with a heart big enough to help Jade, as well as Ben, adjust to their new found relationship. Zoe, Kezia’s daughter, and Jade become BFF’s, during the two weeks Jade is supposed to be staying with Ben. But on the day her Mom is due to take her back to the mainland, Ben receives another zinger. ‘Mom’ has decided it would be best for Jade to stay with Ben…permanently. Suddenly Ben can see his life changing right in front of his eyes. His bachelor day of all night drinking, gaming with his friends and hook-ups are suddenly being replaced with being a full time 24/7 Daddy duties.
It’s fun to watch Ben as he slowly connects with his daughter. The Mud fight in the Manliest Man contest seemed to be the turning point, as Ben finally lets down his barriers, putting himself totally outside his normal comfort zone. And to have Jade cheering him on just cemented their fragile bond. But it isn’t quite as easy for Kezia and Ben to open their hearts to each other. Ben makes many a blunder as he tries to attract Kezia, but it isn’t until these two learn to open up to each other and trust one another, that they can feel safe to love.
Thanks Tracey Alvarez for another hit.
When loud banging on the door rouses Ben from some seriously steamy dreams about the school teacher he finds a woman from his past with a young girl in tow. Apparently, he has a daughter. Surprise!! Being a Dad was never on Ben’s top 100 list of things to do. Ben is clueless when it comes to children. Thankfully Kezia is a typical Italian Mom, with a heart big enough to help Jade, as well as Ben, adjust to their new found relationship. Zoe, Kezia’s daughter, and Jade become BFF’s, during the two weeks Jade is supposed to be staying with Ben. But on the day her Mom is due to take her back to the mainland, Ben receives another zinger. ‘Mom’ has decided it would be best for Jade to stay with Ben…permanently. Suddenly Ben can see his life changing right in front of his eyes. His bachelor day of all night drinking, gaming with his friends and hook-ups are suddenly being replaced with being a full time 24/7 Daddy duties.
It’s fun to watch Ben as he slowly connects with his daughter. The Mud fight in the Manliest Man contest seemed to be the turning point, as Ben finally lets down his barriers, putting himself totally outside his normal comfort zone. And to have Jade cheering him on just cemented their fragile bond. But it isn’t quite as easy for Kezia and Ben to open their hearts to each other. Ben makes many a blunder as he tries to attract Kezia, but it isn’t until these two learn to open up to each other and trust one another, that they can feel safe to love.
Thanks Tracey Alvarez for another hit.
May 4, 2015
This is the second book in the Due South series and it was every bit as good as the first one was. Into the Deep is the first one. Ben Harland if you remember from book one he has a dive business and his sister Piper quit her job as a police diver and went to work for her brother doing shark dives for the business. Keiza Murphy is the school teacher on the island. She is a single mother to eight year old Zoe. Ben has always been attracted to Keiza but he doesn't due relationships. One morning he is awakened from sleep by a woman at his door. Her name is Marci and he knew years ago they had a two day fling. She brings an eight year old girl with her who Ben thinks looks like his sister. Marci proceeds to tell him that her name is Jade and she is his daughter. She brought her for the weekend to get to know her father. Ben is in shock and don't know what to do. He has a crying girl he doesn't know and her mother just left her. He calls Keiza in a panic and she comes up with Zoe to meet Jade. They settle the girls and then Keiza tries to help Ben figure out what to do. Over a period of time they start to get closer with her helping him with Jade. Jade's mother calls and says she doesn't want her back and she is leaving her with Ben. Now the real panic sets in. I really think you will enjoy this book as Ben tries to learn how to be a single dad and show affection to a girl he doesn't know and she thinks no one wants. Also, Ben struggles as he falls in love with Keiza and Marci returns to take Jade back. This is a good read
August 11, 2014
In this story we meet Kezia Murphy, a widow with an 8 year old daughter. Four years earlier, as her daughter battled Luekemia, an accident took the life of Kezia's husband. In an attempt to start over, Kezia and her daughter, Zoe, move to the small town of Oban, located on Stewart Island in New Zealand. Kezia becomes the town school teacher, and she is content living life with just her daughter by her side. Her daughter, on the other hand, longs for more.
Insert Ben Harland, the town womanizer, who dislikes kids and all things gooey and emotional. However, things take a turn, when an ex-girlfriend shows up at Ben's door with a child he never knew he had. Unaccostumed the being a dad, and with no idea how to even take care of a child, Ben turns to the only person he can think of...Kezia.
Kezia come running, with daughter Zoe in tow, who strikes up a new friendship with Ben's daughter Jade. As the families start spending more and more time together, Kezia and Ben can't ignore the spark between them, and soon it explodes into a full blown inferno.
I really enjoyed this book, it was great to see Kezia open up, after having lost so much in her life, and seeing Ben take on the roll of daddy, made this book come full circle.
The book does start out a little slow, but it starts to gain momentum from the moment Ben is hit with the bombshell that is his daughter. After that, I didn't even want to put the Kindle down!
*I was given this book free, for review purposes, but all opinions are my own*
Insert Ben Harland, the town womanizer, who dislikes kids and all things gooey and emotional. However, things take a turn, when an ex-girlfriend shows up at Ben's door with a child he never knew he had. Unaccostumed the being a dad, and with no idea how to even take care of a child, Ben turns to the only person he can think of...Kezia.
Kezia come running, with daughter Zoe in tow, who strikes up a new friendship with Ben's daughter Jade. As the families start spending more and more time together, Kezia and Ben can't ignore the spark between them, and soon it explodes into a full blown inferno.
I really enjoyed this book, it was great to see Kezia open up, after having lost so much in her life, and seeing Ben take on the roll of daddy, made this book come full circle.
The book does start out a little slow, but it starts to gain momentum from the moment Ben is hit with the bombshell that is his daughter. After that, I didn't even want to put the Kindle down!
*I was given this book free, for review purposes, but all opinions are my own*
June 27, 2014
Melting Into You by Tracey Alvarez is the second book in her Due South series. This story focuses on Ben, the brother to Piper from the first book and Kezia, the close friend of Piper.
Kezia is a widowed single mother. He daughter Zoe is 8 and the sole focus and purpose in Kezia's life. Zoe is in remission from Leukemia and Kez doesn't take a moment for granted.
Ben is a single guy with absolutely no desire to settle, date, get serious, or have kids. That is until a fling from 9 years ago shows up on his doorstep with his 8-year old daughter.
Left to struggle with becoming an insta-parent Ben enlists the help of his neighbor and parent of the only other child of like age near by. Kez is shocked by the mother's behavior, and tries her hardest to assist Ben in getting to know his daughter Jade and help him become a better parent.
Somewhere along the way these two start to fall for each other. It's almost painful how many times they (mostly Ben) blunder, but it' s a beautifully told story of falling in love, becoming a parent, and being true to yourself. I can't wait to read more from this author and in this series. Impatiently awaiting book three in this series.
Kezia is a widowed single mother. He daughter Zoe is 8 and the sole focus and purpose in Kezia's life. Zoe is in remission from Leukemia and Kez doesn't take a moment for granted.
Ben is a single guy with absolutely no desire to settle, date, get serious, or have kids. That is until a fling from 9 years ago shows up on his doorstep with his 8-year old daughter.
Left to struggle with becoming an insta-parent Ben enlists the help of his neighbor and parent of the only other child of like age near by. Kez is shocked by the mother's behavior, and tries her hardest to assist Ben in getting to know his daughter Jade and help him become a better parent.
Somewhere along the way these two start to fall for each other. It's almost painful how many times they (mostly Ben) blunder, but it' s a beautifully told story of falling in love, becoming a parent, and being true to yourself. I can't wait to read more from this author and in this series. Impatiently awaiting book three in this series.
June 16, 2014
I was provide a copy of the book by the Author for an honest review.
I just finish reading this book, and I love it, love the characters, and love how the book turn out to be, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
The story begging with Ben, Ben is in the middle of a dream, when he is awaking from his sleep, by the loud banging on the door, he gets up and make his way to the door, to be greeted by an old hooked up that he had nine years ago, when he ask her what she was doing their, she just simply said Jada meet your Daddy, Ben was shocked by this news and have no I dead what to do with an eight year old girl. On the other end Kezia is outside her house, with her daughter doing some garden work, when she see the lady that ask for direction, that's when she found out that Ben was actually a daddy, Kezia and her daughter end up visiting Ben, but what they where not expecting was that their life's was about to change. Can Kezia open her heart up to have a second chance at love, will Ben become the daddy that he is meant to be.
I really love and enjoy reading this book, I love the way how Ben is with his daughter, love the way that you could see him changing, love it how he is with Kezia, and how he tried to show her that they could be a family, Author Tracey Alvarez THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome characters and this great book love it.
I just finish reading this book, and I love it, love the characters, and love how the book turn out to be, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
The story begging with Ben, Ben is in the middle of a dream, when he is awaking from his sleep, by the loud banging on the door, he gets up and make his way to the door, to be greeted by an old hooked up that he had nine years ago, when he ask her what she was doing their, she just simply said Jada meet your Daddy, Ben was shocked by this news and have no I dead what to do with an eight year old girl. On the other end Kezia is outside her house, with her daughter doing some garden work, when she see the lady that ask for direction, that's when she found out that Ben was actually a daddy, Kezia and her daughter end up visiting Ben, but what they where not expecting was that their life's was about to change. Can Kezia open her heart up to have a second chance at love, will Ben become the daddy that he is meant to be.
I really love and enjoy reading this book, I love the way how Ben is with his daughter, love the way that you could see him changing, love it how he is with Kezia, and how he tried to show her that they could be a family, Author Tracey Alvarez THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome characters and this great book love it.
May 31, 2015
Melting into You is the second book in the Due South series. It is the story of Ben and Kezia. For most of the first book I didn't even like Ben, but in this book he totally "melted" my heart -pun intended! I loved that he got a chance to redeem himself.
Kezia is the devoted single mother who is used to putting her daughter's needs before her own. She fights her attraction to Ben for the sake of her daughter. Kezia as well as her little girl have been through a lot and she will do anything to protect her. They are both really sweet and charismatic and it's impossible not to like them.
Ben on the other hand is the complete opposite. However, his life changes when an old fling shows up and he learns he is a father. It's so great to see the effect that the girls have on him and how they change him. It's such a heartwarming story when the tough, ill-tempered guy falls in love with a woman and two little girls.
The book was like a mix between a Disney movie and a Spanish soap opera, and I loved every minute of it! It was hot and steamy but at times also deep and profound. Ben and Kezia kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time and now I just can't wait for the next book to come out.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
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